The New York Red Bulls still have big plans for Claudio Reyna, according to Jeff Agoos, who was named club sporting director on Monday. “[Red Bulls coach] Juan (Osorio) has sat down with Claudio and we expect to have Claudio back and healthy,” he said. “We’re expecting a big season from Claudio.”
Reyna had a sub-par 2007; he played in 21 games, registering three assists and no goals. The 34-year-old Reyna is now entering the second of a two-year $2.5 million contract with the Red Bulls, for which he commanded a designated player slot. Reports suggested that Red Bull, the club’s owner, might try to buy out the remainder of his contract, but the player always maintained that he planned on returning in 2008.
Separately, Agoos stated that the Bulls were in talks with goalkeeper Jon Conway about a new contract. Conway’s Red Bull career looked to be over when former Bruce Arena brought in Ronald Waterreus at the beginning of 2007, but a combination of injury and poor form from the Dutchman handed Conway his chance. “I think the world of Jon and I think he should be a starting goalkeeper in this league,” Agoos said of Conway. “He’s been in a difficult position throughout his career and I think it is a big opportunity for Jon to claim the starting job here.”